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How Asset Finance is Powering Manchester’s Industrial Growth

Manchester is booming.

From Trafford Park to Ancoats, and from Wythenshawe to Salford Quays, this city’s business scene is alive with ambition 

And it’s not just talk.

Industrial take-up is up, equipment investments are rising, and manufacturers are expanding. But here’s the catch: growth costs money.

That’s why more Manchester businesses are ditching the wait-and-save approach and turning to asset finance to move faster, smarter, and without risking their working capital.

 

Manchester’s industrial growth isn’t slowing down

You only need to look at Trafford Park, Europe’s largest industrial estate, to see the pace of change. It’s home to 1,400+ companies and over 35,000 workers, and demand for space is only increasing.

In 2024 alone:

– The North West industrial and logistics market saw 4.8 million sq ft of take-up — up 7.5% on 2023

Rents rose by 11%

– Major developments landed in Stretford, Rochdale and Stockport, with tenants including Amazon, GXO, and local advanced manufacturers

These are businesses investing in:

– Automation tech

– Fleet upgrades

– Energy-efficient systems

– New machinery

And they’re doing it without burning cash reserves, thanks to asset finance.

Asset finance – a smarter way to invest in Manchester’s growth

Let’s call it what it is: waiting until you’ve saved enough for a six-figure piece of kit is a waste of opportunity.

Asset finance gives you access to the equipment you need now, from delivery vans and forklifts to packaging lines and CNC machines, while spreading the cost over time.

And it’s on the rise:

Asset finance new business grew 11% in March 2025 

SME lending hit £4.6 billion in Q1 2025, the highest since mid-2022

Manchester saw a sharp rise in asset finance take-up across logistics, engineering and vehicle leasing in Q2 2025

Put simply: businesses that want to stay competitive are financing smarter.

 

What is asset finance? Here’s a quick intro…

Need a quick refresher? No problem:

Asset finance is a flexible way for businesses to acquire vehicles, machinery, equipment or technology without paying the full cost upfront.

Instead, you spread payments over time, preserving your working capital while still getting the tools you need to grow. 

It’s a popular option for SMEs in sectors like manufacturing, logistics, construction and retail, especially in fast-growing regions like Manchester. Whether you’re scaling operations, upgrading old equipment or going greener, asset finance helps you move now and pay later, without putting your cash flow under pressure.

Manchester businesses are using asset finance to…

Upgrade fleets and reduce emissions

Manchester’s Clean Air Plan is no joke. From low-emission zones to green fleet incentives, pressure is rising. We’re helping local firms finance electric vans, hybrid HGVs and low-emission plants without the upfront hit.

Invest in automation and machinery

From print shops in Ancoats to fabricators in Wigan, businesses are investing in automation to cut waste, improve throughput, and counter rising labour costs.

Expand production without delays

Whether it’s modular builds in Trafford or F&B manufacturers scaling up in Stockport, equipment finance means no waiting 12 months to afford the next growth move.

Scale fulfilment and logistics

With ecommerce firms growing fast in places like Oldham and Eccles, we’re helping them fund conveyor systems, warehouse upgrades and cold chain infrastructure, all without cashflow headaches.

 

Aligning with Manchester’s green ambitions

Greater Manchester plans to reach carbon neutrality by 2038, 12 years ahead of the national target. That’s not just idealism, it’s already in motion:

– 117 zero-emission buses already committed

– EV and hybrid vehicle grants rolling out for trades and logistics

– Stricter emissions rules in planning for 2026 and beyond

Asset finance helps businesses invest in green kit now, electric vehicles, energy-saving machinery, solar arrays, the lot. All without waiting for grant windows or risking their runway.

Considering asset finance? Here’s why you should partner with Jones & Co

This isn’t about ticking a funding box. It’s about finding the right structure, terms, and timing for your business, from a partner who knows the Manchester market inside out.

Here’s what sets us apart:

We’ve worked with local businesses

Based just down the road in Birmingham, and tightly connected to Manchester’s industrial scene, we’ve worked with businesses across Trafford Park, Wythenshawe, Salford, Rochdale and more.

We know the sector

From advanced manufacturers to regional couriers, our team understands how industrial businesses operate, and what you need to fund sustainable growth.

We’ve got market reach you won’t find elsewhere

Access to 50+ funders, including boutique lenders you won’t get through banks or generic brokers. That means better rates, more flexibility, and approvals where others say no.

We think beyond the loan

Need support with capital allowances, green investment tax relief, or timing funding to seasonal cycles? We do that. This is more than lending, it’s strategy.

One contact, straight answers

We don’t do the corporate shuffle. You’ll work with one experienced advisor from start to finish, with honest, no-jargon advice that helps you move quickly and confidently.

We believe that Manchester businesses deserve better finance

You’re not just running a business. You’re building something, and that takes investment. Whether it’s people, kit, or property, waiting until you’ve saved “enough” is a slow road to nowhere.

Asset finance lets you move now, pay over time, and stay in control.

With the way the city is growing, standing still isn’t an option anymore. If you’ve got a question, or you’re not sure what next steps to take, get in touch today. We’re on hand to help as and when you need us. 

[Get in touch]

01473 553 430
support@jonesandcofinance.com

How Jones & Co can help

At Jones & Co, we understand that every business is unique, and so are its financial needs.

That’s why we craft tailored finance solutions that enable businesses to thrive, no matter the challenge or opportunity.

With access to a vast network of trusted lenders, we’re here to simplify the process, offering straightforward, personalised guidance designed around you and your goals. Whether you’re looking to manage cash flow, invest in growth, or expand operations, our experts are ready to connect you with the ideal funding solution.

Contact our expert team today for a free, no-obligation consultation and take the first step toward business growth. 

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